If you have a soft spot for classic comfort food that’s both hearty and irresistible, then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender bites of chicken mingling with savory ham and nutty Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a creamy, Dijon-spiked sauce and crowned with a golden, buttery cracker topping that adds just the right crunch. This dish takes the beloved flavors of the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu and transforms them into an easy, family-friendly casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Trust me, once you make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe, you’ll be hooked on its warm, cheesy goodness that feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All of the ingredients in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe come together simply yet play essential roles in building layers of flavor and texture. Each element, from the creamy soup to the crunchy cracker topping, ensures the dish is rich, satisfying, and visually appealing.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: The star protein, providing a tender and juicy base for the casserole.
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham: Adds a smoky, salty punch that pairs perfectly with the chicken and cheese.
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese: Offers a nutty, melty layer of cheesy goodness that binds the dish together.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every bite.
- 1 cup sour cream: Gives the casserole its smooth, tangy richness for balanced flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Injects a subtle but distinct tang that lifts the whole dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses warmth and depth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds mild sweetness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve): Creates a crunchy, buttery topping that’s pure perfection.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps the cracker topping brown beautifully and adds richness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness to finish.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will brown evenly while baking.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 ½ cups of the shredded Swiss cheese. This trio is the heart of your casserole, promising tons of savory flavor in every forkful.
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This sauce is the magic that binds your casserole, infusing each bite with rich and tangy notes.
Step 4: Combine and Spread
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and ham, folding everything together so it’s thoroughly coated. Then spread this delicious mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, creating an inviting layer just waiting to be baked.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for an extra cheesy finish. Next, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter in a small bowl to create a buttery, crispy crust, then sprinkle it over the cheese layer. This topping makes every bite exciting and adds a beautiful golden color.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cracker topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly for perfect slicing.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only livens up the flavors but brings a delightful pop of green that makes your dish look as good as it tastes. Feel free to add a few thin lemon slices on the side to brighten each bite with a hint of citrus.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides such as steamed green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. These choices balance the richness of the casserole and make the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation at gatherings, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. You can also scoop the casserole atop buttered egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes for an indulgent twist that turns it into a full-blown feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day, if not better. Covering the casserole well keeps the topping from getting soggy.
Freezing
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions or the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through and the topping crisps up again, usually about 20 to 25 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the deliciously crunchy topping intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
You definitely can, but be sure to cook the chicken fully before mixing it in the casserole to avoid undercooked meat and to ensure the right texture. Shredded rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut that works perfectly.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use a low-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also opt for reduced-fat cheese, though the casserole will be a little less rich and creamy.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, just swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free cracker crumbs and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. This way, you keep all the flavor and texture without the gluten.
What can I do if I don’t have Swiss cheese?
Gruyère or mozzarella are great substitutes if Swiss cheese isn’t on hand. They melt nicely and offer a similarly mild, nutty flavor to complement the ham and chicken.
How spicy is this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe?
This casserole has a mild flavor profile, with just a slight tang from the Dijon mustard. If you want to add a bit of heat, consider stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper or serving it with a side of spicy mustard sauce.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to the table with its comforting, cheesy, and flavorful layers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some cozy, satisfying food on a weeknight, give this casserole a try. I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a comforting and delicious baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese all mixed into a creamy sauce. Topped with buttery crushed crackers for a crunchy finish, this casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Ham Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
Sauce
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Combine chicken, ham, and cheese: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded or cubed cooked chicken, diced ham, and 1 ½ cups of the shredded Swiss cheese until evenly combined.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Mix sauce with chicken mixture: Pour the sauce over the chicken and ham mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
- Prepare cracker topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter and tangier version.
- Use gluten-free crackers and cream of chicken soup to make this dish gluten-free.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
